My Fab Fifties Life

Walla Walla Washington to Hood River Oregon Road Trip

August 14, 2026

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Summer was coming to an end. I needed a getaway, after five months of recuperating from total knee replacement. So we packed up the car and headed from our home in Port Orchard Washington across the state to Walla Walla. I hadn’t visited Walla Walla in more than ten years. So it was definitely time. Time for a Walla Walla Washington to Hood River Oregon Road Trip.

Walla Walla Washington to Hood River Oregon Road Trip

Port Orchard to Walla Walla

Driving from our home in Port Orchard on the west side of Washington State, we traveled over Interstate 90 to Ellensburg. Here you leave I-90 to head south to Yakima. The quickest route is along Interstate 82. But we decided to take our time and instead enjoyed the old highway 821 known as Canyon Road. It winds along the Yakima River and through fertile farmland and beautiful canyons. The air was twinged with smoke from wildfires burning across the state on this hot summer day. It made for an eerie pink hue in the sky.

Driving along the Canyon Road from Ellensburg to Yakima

Arriving in the farming community of Yakima it was lunch time. So we headed to the famous local drive-in known as Miner’s. Located in the small town of Union Gap just south of Yakima proper, Miner’s has been serving up GIANT burgers and much more since 1948. It’s an institution in Yakima for both locals and visitors alike. I recommend sharing a burger. Huge and delicious.

Continuing on Interstate 82 south and east through the Tri Cities we hopped on Hwy 12 to continue on into Walla Walla.

History of Walla Walla

The City of Walla Walla, located in Southeastern Washington, is one of the oldest cities in the state. The area surrounding the city, the Walla Walla Valley, has been the scene of a long and diverse history that includes native North Americans, explorers Meriwether Lewis (1774-1809) and William Clark (1770-1838), fur traders, missionaries Marcus (1802-1847) and Narcissa (1808-1847) Whitman, soldiers, gold prospectors, pioneers, and others.

The town of Walla Walla developed around the U.S. military Fort Walla Walla in the late 1850s. It was named and platted in 1859, and incorporated and named the seat of Walla Walla County in 1862. A gold rush in the early 1860s, followed by a growing agricultural industry, made Walla Walla the largest city in Washington Territory by 1880. Since the late nineteenth century, the City of Walla Walla has been the center of a region known for its agricultural products, including wheat, barley, corn, potatoes, asparagus, peas, soft fruit, onions, and grapes. Following the establishment of the Walla Walla Valley as a unique American Viticultural Area in 1984, the city has been at the center of a burgeoning premium wine industry. With a population of 30,900 (as of 2007), Walla Walla is the largest city in Walla Walla County. HistoryLink.org

Walla Walla Today

Today Walla Walla is a beautiful town and a destination for wine lovers and sports enthusiasts. It is also home to some amazing dining options as well as parks, golf, arts and culture.

We only managed to visit three of the region’s more than 130 wineries. So I guess we really will need to visit again. Our first stop was as we came into the city on day one. We stopped at Woodward Canyon just as we were coming into town. This small boutique winery had a quiet little tasting room. We sat outside in the garden and enjoyed the peaceful experience. L’Ecole winery is right next door and also worth a stop, as is Cougar Crest winery just down the way.

Where We Stayed

Continuing on into Walla Walla we arrived at our lodging. Our home for two nights was the Winemaker’s Suite. Not a hotel or exactly a bed and breakfast. Rather the top floor (suite) of a historic Walla Walla home built in 1906, with the homeowner living downstairs. It was so perfectly appointed and comfortable and included a simple continental breakfast of yogurt, fruit, coffee and hard boiled eggs. We ate our breakfast each morning in the beautiful backyard. A perfect location as well for getting to parks and historic downtown Walla Walla.

Winemaker’s Suite included a large bed, bath and a sitting room with television

Beautifully restored historic home close to downtown

Unique touches like this button next to the bed to start the coffee pot

After settling in to our beautiful suite we took a walk through the historic core and made a few purchases before heading to our dinner reservation. I do recommend making reservations. Our dinner at Salted Mill was surprisingly busy on a Monday night. This very popular spot in a former mill was outstanding in both food and service. Highly recommend.

This beet and raspberry cold soup was one of the best things I ever ate.

Ahi Wontons are one of the signature appetizers

Walla Walla Day Two

Temperatures were gonna soar on our second day in Walla Walla, slated to be high 90’s Fahrenheit. That, combined with the continued light smoke in the air, had us considering our options. But we decided to get out early and do some light hiking before it got too hot.

Parks

Just a few blocks from our lodging is the amazing Pioneer Park. This lovely park includes a nice rose garden, dozens of century old trees as well as a very interesting aviary of birds from around the world. Such a surprise. We really enjoyed it.

For a little more exercise we headed to Bennington Lake – a reservoir just outside of town. Temperatures were rising but we did the trail around the lake, about four miles total. It gave us a good workout as well as an opportunity to spot some new-to-us birds.

After all that activity we were ready for lunch and more wine. We had made a reservation ahead of time to do a wine tasting and enjoy lunch at the combined tasting room of Waterbrook Winery and Canoe Ridge Winery. Lunch was delicious on the outdoor patio with a view of the bird estuary. And the wine was also delicious. Back in town we stopped in to admire the historic and beautiful Marcus Whitman Hotel built in 1928 and known as the Grand Dame of the Palouse. Then it was back to our suite for a rest and a shower before dinner.

Beautiful estuary – my husband enjoyed the birds

The final night of our brief visit to Walla Walla we enjoyed another outstanding meal, this time at Hattaway’s on Alder. I recommend a reservation here as well, it is very popular and for good reason. Definitely try the deviled eggs. Everything was delicious and the service was exceptional too.

Walla Walla to Hood River

Waking up in Walla Walla on day three of our road trip the smoke had gotten much heavier as fires in Spokane about 120 miles away were taking a terrible toll. After breakfast we began the 180 mile drive to Hood River Oregon along the Columbia River Gorge.

Our original plan was to hike up the butte at Crow Butte State Park. But the combination of heat and smoke had us thinking otherwise. We did stop at Crow Butte, a lovely US Army Corps of Engineers park right on the river. Instead of a strenuous hike we enjoyed a short walk.

We decided not to walk all the way up the butte

Instead enjoyed an easy walk with some interpretive history along the way

Plan B – we headed instead back downriver to visit Maryhill Winery. A beautiful spot overlooking the river, we enjoyed a wine flight and a small cup of soup to hold us until dinner.

History of Hood River

The area was inhabited by Native Americans when the Lewis and Clark expedition passed through on October 29, 1805. Here they found a camp site called “Waucoma,” or “place of big trees.” The camp was located near what became known as the Dog River and its confluence with the Columbia River. Later, Mrs. Nathaniel (Mary) Coe, a well-known pioneer resident of the valley, objected to the name Dog River and succeeded in changing the name to Hood River. The name Hood River appears on a map as early as 1856. Originally a part of Wasco County, Hood River County gained its political separation on June 23, 1908, and its boundaries have remained unchanged to the present time.

Nathaniel and Mary Coe were the original owners of a 319-acre government land grant bordered on the east by (what is now) Front Street, on the north by the Columbia River, on the west by Thirteenth Street, and on the south by May Street. In 1854 the Nathaniel Coe family filed a land claim on acreage now part of the City of Hood River. They were soon followed by the William Jenkins family and the Benson family. Coe was one of the first to plant fruit trees in the Hood River Valley.

Apple orchards flourished in this rich valley from 1890 to 1920, and Hood River became famous for its apples. In 1919 many apple trees were struck by a killing freeze. Farmers replaced the apple trees with pear trees, and now Hood River county leads the world in Anjou Pear production. City of Hood River

Crossing the river from Washington to Hood River Oregon the smoke was so thick it was eerie

Hood River Today

With a population of 8500, the small town of Hood River packs a big punch. With a historic downtown as well as a new, beautifully designed waterfront pedestrian friendly area the town has a lot to offer. Windsurfing, fishing, sailing, golf and enjoying the bounty of the agricultural region – Hood River is a hidden gem less than an hour from Portland.

Where We Stayed

Our reason for coming to Hood River was to stay at the historic Columbia Gorge Hotel and Spa. I had admired this property from the freeway as I drove by on several occasions and always wanted to visit. The hotel, built by lumber baron Simon Benson in 1921 in its heyday attracted international visitors and Hollywood types.

Alas the property today could use a little TLC. Rooms were comfortable and staff was great but only the front garden is cared for and everything else around the property was dead or nearly. That was disappointing. As was the cleanliness of the outside bar area – much in need of a pressure washer.

The hotel sits on top of the Wau Gwin Gwin Falls

Unique to the hotel is the original century old elevator, operated with a hand crank by hotel staff. Being on the third floor we needed the elevator several times, and you need to wait for the front desk staff to come take you up or down.

Inside the 100 year old elevator operated by staff

After settling in to our room we headed out to visit some of the area’s multiple microbreweries. Hood River is home to the more famous Full Sail Ale and Hood River Brewing. But we chose to visit a lesser known microbrew pub called Double Mountain. A very cute spot with great beer and service in the heart of the historic town.

For dinner we headed to the new waterfront area and a microbrewery and restaurant called pFriem Family Brewers. Once again amazing service, and delicious food and beer. It had been a great day.

This watermelon and feta salad was incredible

Hood River Day Two

Very smoky. The worst yet. Smoke blowing in from wildfires in both Washington and Oregon. We decided to proceed as planned and bail if needed.

On the recommendation of a friend, we headed to River Daze Cafe for breakfast. Arne had Avocado Toast and I had a giant Bacon Waffle. Wow. Too much food. But yummy. To work off that meal we took a stroll along the riverfront walk. The air was so still, unusual for Hood River, and the smoke was hanging low.

Next we headed to Hood River Golf Club, where we had made a tee time in advance for nine holes. We enjoyed our game, but noticed how thirsty the smoky air was making us. It was hot too, pushing 90 by the time we finished.

That’s me in the smoky haze trying to golf

Before heading back to the hotel we made a brief stop at Packer Orchards, a wonderful local farm stand and bakery. So many delicious things to choose from. We stocked up on a few items to take home. But now it was time to head back to the hotel and take a break from the smoky skies.

For dinner we stayed at the hotel, booking ahead at their fine dining restaurant Simon’s. Nice view of the river, and the restaurant was surprisingly busy. I tried one of their signature dishes, the French Onion Soup, as well as steamed clams, while Arne had one of his favorites, Osso Bucco.

Smoke was clearing and the view improved

Hood River to Port Orchard

Waking up on day five to improving smoke levels, and lots of sunshine trying to burn through the haze. We headed out early, needing to get home for an appointment, and expecting the drive to take about four hours. Traffic was good, and we took the time to enjoy the Historic Hwy 30 also known as the Columbia River Scenic Highway. The old highway runs along the river and under the historic Bridge of the Gods. Continuing it ascends over the mountain. Along this route is the famous (and usually crowded) Multnomah Falls, as well as several other incredible waterfalls and vistas to enjoy.

Due to its popularity, Multnomah Falls now requires a timed entry ticket so plan ahead because it is worth it – one of Oregon’s top sites. We have visited Multnomah before, so on this day we decided to check one of the other falls, Bridal Veil. This stop along the historic highway offers a short hike to the falls, as well as several scenic viewpoints of the river.

Incredible geology everywhere you look along the Columbia River Gorge

Before returning to the freeway and making the trip home, we stopped for a brief photo opportunity at the Vista House, the highest point on historic Hwy 30. I marveled at the steep ascent and descent to this lookout, having ridden my bike up this mountain about a decade ago. That experience called Ride Around Washington is to this day, one of my favorite things I ever did. Life-changing six days across the beautiful State of Washington. Read about that amazing experience here.

Today from Vista House looking at the Columbia River

Almost exactly 11 years earlier in the same spot

Walla Walla Washington to Hood River Oregon Road Trip

We came, we saw, we enjoyed. We also drank wine and had some amazing dining experiences. This brief little getaway put wind back in our sails as we returned home ready to tackle our final two weeks before embarking again on international travel. After five months of recuperating, I am ready.

Thank you for reading my post Walla Walla Washington to Hood River Oregon Road Trip. Next week I will share our upcoming itinerary for 103 Days of Travel. It’s time to go!

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Asia & Oceania Travel

Korean Spa – Some Like it Hot

August 7, 2026

Laureen

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Location: Korea

I’m discovering the Korean people love to be hot. Setting the temperature in our hotel room lower than 80 * Fahrenheit is nearly impossible. The toilet seat is heated and so are seats in the car. And they love their hot baths and saunas. And now I do too. Let’s talk about Korean Spa – Some Like it Hot.

(This post was updated in August 2026)

I was a little apprehensive about going into the sauna the first time. I’m not used to walking around naked with people I don’t know. This apparently is not a problem for the Koreans. And frankly why it is for Americans I’m not sure. We do obsess a great deal about our bodies. God knows mine is far from perfect. But what is perfect anyway? Wouldn’t it be great if we all just were satisfied with ourselves?

Some Like it Hot

I tried to think like this in the sauna. No one paid any attention to me here. First shower, then choose between three different pools; hot (44 C), medium (41 C) and cool (21 C). There is also a 95 C dry sauna, a 73 C wet sauna and a sun lamp room. As well as several stations to wash and scrub yourself.

After two days of visiting the spa I decided to tackle the massage and body scrub. I was met by a tiny little lady, the only person in the spa wearing a bathing suit (or perhaps it was her underwear). She motioned me into the small room adjacent to the spa and encouraged me to get up on the table. She spoke only Korean except for the word “okay” which she used to show me I was following her instructions correctly.

Every Crease and Crevice

She then proceeded to scrub the hell out of my skin. Using what I think was mitts on her hands she scrubbed and scrubbed. With my eyes closed I had the image of me in my kitchen at home using my Brillo to scrub away baked-on macaroni and cheese. She scrubbed every nook, cranny, crevice and crease of my body, and I mean every crease and crevice – she was very thorough and diligent in her task. For an hour she scrubbed away years of dead skin, old suntans and crud. She even tried to scrub away a few scars. I have a permanent mark on my sternum where my running bra abrades me. She did her best to scrub that sucker away.

I wear a patch on my belly that is hormone replacement therapy. I hadn’t even thought about the patch, but she scrubbed that away too. I have no idea if she knew what it was. I felt it rip off and I laid there mentally calculating how many more I had in my suitcase. Just hoping the loss of one wouldn’t make me come up short before I headed home to my pharmacist.

She scrubbed my armpits and I was wishing I had shaved that morning. She scrubbed my breasts and I opened my eyes to peek and make sure my nipples were still there. She scrubbed my neck, my ears and every toe and finger.

She then soaped me up and I nearly shot right off the plastic covered bed like an oiled pig for being so slippery. She tossed large tubs of hot water all over me and I nearly drowned. And I loved every minute of it.

Okay Okay

“Okay, Okay” she said and sent me off to shower. I soaked in the pools while she cleaned the room and prepared for my massage.

I returned and she was waiting for me and I laid down again, top up. She rubbed me down, starting with my face with an oil that smelled of the sea, fresh but also of seaweed. She used another implement that was wood and covered with nodules to rub my body head to toe. She occasionally would throw a bucket of hot water on me and then begin again.

She covered my face with a hot towel and then I heard her scraping something. It sounded like my kitchen grater…and then the unmistakable smell of fresh cucumber. She grated and grated and then proceeded to artistically cover my entire face with the freshly grated cucumber mash. And suddenly I was hungry and my stomach growled.

While lunch sat on my face she continued my massage. She found the knot in my neck where my massage therapist at home has spent a lot of time and energy. Hell-bent on undoing this knot and she worked and worked it. It was both painful and pleasurable. She even massaged my belly, almost as if she was trying to manipulate my liver and kidneys. Oops, and my bladder. I hoped she would avoid that area or else I wasn’t gonna make it through this torture without a potty break.

Finally she removed the salad from my face and lightly washed and dried my face. Now it was time for dessert. Yes I said dessert. She drizzled honey all over my face and rubbed and patted it into my skin. “Okay okay” and had me roll over to my belly.

Not Done Yet!

And then she started on my backside. During this 30 minutes she made my sciatica feel fabulous and my lower back feel young again. She used a pumice stone on my feet. She scraped away the dead skin and calluses. She kneaded my neck further and worked my shoulders and arms.

“Okay okay” and I rolled over again, thinking we must be done, but no. She washed my face again. Then had me scoot all the way to the top of the table where she proceeded to wash my hair and scrub my scalp. Really, when has your massage therapist ever done this?

Finally, after nearly three hours, “Okay okay” and I am done. Off to the showers I was sent.

My day at the Korean spa was not just a body scrub and massage, it was a facial and a hair care and pure ecstasy. My inhibitions are gone forever. I am now a super fan of Korean Spa Life. I will absolutely do this again.

And by the way, three hours and all this only cost me $75. Wow. I’m really starting to enjoy Korea.

All photos in this blog post from Canva.

Thank you for reading my post Korean Spa – Some Like it Hot. See last week’s post Time to Plan New England for the Fall.

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North America Travel

Time to Plan New England in the Fall

July 31, 2026

Laureen

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It’s not too early to start to plan your fall visit to beautiful New England for the fall foliage. In fact, you definitely need to secure your details now. I really enjoyed our visit to four states for leaf peeping, incredible food, hiking and fabulous hospitality. With the popularity of fall in the Northeastern USA on the rise, it’s time to plan New England in the Fall 2026.

A hard but gorgeous hike in New Hampshire – Frankenstein Cliffs

(This post was updated in July 2026).

My Favorites

In October 2025 we visited New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine and Upstate New York. Each was beautiful, sunny and a perfect picture postcard of fall. There are many, many places to stay and eat, as well as things to do. But for the purposes of this post, I will share the things we enjoyed and recommend. I will also share some fabulous photos – I took thousands of photos!!

Something amazing at every turn in New Hampshire

New Hampshire

We had such a great time in New Hampshire. Even though we arrived a few days past peak of color (changes annually – see this handy guide here) but we were NOT disappointed. We had fantastic weather and the colors were still mind-blowing. Our time was spent in the Conway area which is insanely popular. I highly recommend planning your visit for a weekday or two, not on a weekend. We gave up trying to do anything on a Saturday because of the crowds, and came back on Sunday and Monday to see the sights. Luckily we had the time to do that.

Mount Washington Resort is open for non guests to visit

Don’t miss Franconia Notch State Park (especially the Flume and the Basin Cascade Pools), Kancamagus Highway, Artists Point, Bretton Woods Gondola, Arethusa Falls- Frankenstein Cliffs and Mount Washington Resort. Learn more at Visit New Hampshire.

We stayed in the small town of Glen about 15 minutes from Conway. We loved The Covered Bridge House Bed and Breakfast. The hosts were amazing, the breakfasts were delicious and the riverside location was peaceful. I would definitely stay here again.

Perfect accommodations at The Covered Bridge House Bed and Breakfast

The property includes this historic covered bridge which houses a gift shop

The best food we had in New Hampshire was at the nearby White Mountain Cider Company. Reservations are a must, and book early during this very busy time of year. It is a very special place, small and quaint and the food and service were outstanding.

Highly recommend the White Mountain Cider Company

Fall is in the air at the White Mountain Cider Company

Vermont

The color in Vermont was also fabulous, and the area we stayed near Lake Champlain was rural and peaceful. Before arriving in our rural destination we spent several hours in Stowe. We enjoyed the old town, did some shopping and picture taking. Then we rode the gondola at the Stowe ski resort to enjoy the expansive view and finished with a wonderful late lunch at The Alpine Hall in the ski village. The short, free gondola ride from the main gondola over to the ski village was a bonus!

We really enjoyed this gondola and the view from the Stowe Mountain Resort

After settling into our Inn we took several long drives to enjoy the bucolic region, walked along Lake Champlain in the small town of Saint Albans, and mostly just relaxed. Our accommodations at The Inn at Buck Hollow were more rustic than New Hampshire, but still comfortable, and the breakfast was delicious.

Inn at Buck Hollow Farm sits on 400 acres

Don’t miss: Cold Hollow Cider Mill, the towns of Stowe and Woodstock, The Vermont Country Store in Rockingham, and Saint Albans. Learn more at Visit Vermont

New York

Two places in New York State really made an impression on us, and I would return to both.

Lake Placid

It’s hard to believe this tiny town managed to hold two Olympic Games (1932 and 1980) but it did. We enjoyed a short visit to this colorful place with the peaceful lake. We had an outstanding breakfast at The Breakfast Club and did some shopping in the small town. Definitely worth a visit.

Cold Spring / Beacon

Our visit to Cold Spring and Beacon was to attend a wedding so we had limited time for sightseeing. However this small town was a perfect little package. Multiple amazing restaurants, lots of unique and eclectic shops, beautiful fall color and a fantastic location right on the Hudson River.

Because of the wedding we did not have time to see many sights, but highly recommended is Mount Beacon for hiking, Bannerman Island for history and the tour of West Point (which is right across the Hudson). Learn more at visit New York.

View of Hudson River from Boscobel House in Beacon

We highly recommend Cold Spring Depot for lunch. For dinner we enjoyed the Hudson House River Inn and had a fantastic meal with our family at Cathryn’s Italian Tuscan Grill.

Maine

We are lucky to have friends in Maine and we enjoy visiting them (see Ogunquit Maine – My Favorite Things). But we had never been to Maine in the fall. We were not disappointed. Sunny and cool and sometimes windy, we enjoyed visiting Wells Reserve at Laudholm Farms for a burst of fall color, some bird watching and history too.

Wells Reserve at Laudholm is a great place to walk

Historic farm at Wells Reserve at Laudholm

We visited Kennebunkport town, somewhere we had not been before. This historic port city (home to the Bush Family) is full of fabulous shops and restaurants and can be very busy on a weekend. We had a marvelous lunch (lobster roll of course) at The Boathouse right on the harbor.

Lots of shops on the seaside in Kennebunkport

Love Lobster in Maine and this Lobster Roll at The Boathouse in Kennebunkport did not disappoint.

We drove about 45 min north to Portland Maine. Maine’s largest city is home to about 70,000. Over the past decade Portland has emerged from a sometimes grimy port city to a fresh and thriving tourist destination, while keeping its fishing and lobster roots. There are many wonderful shops to peruse, beautiful views and museums too. And food…so many restaurants. We had a marvelous dinner at Solo Italiano right near the port.

Exceptional Drinks and Food at Solo Italiano in Portland Maine

Time to Plan New England in the Fall

We planned our road trip for fall color about 8 months in advance. Starting in New Hampshire, crossed over to Vermont, looped down to New York and back up to Maine. We had our own car since we were on a larger road trip, but you could easily do a similar itinerary flying into any of the NYC Airports, Boston or Portland.

There is much more you could consider when you decide to find Time to Plan New England in the Fall. MUCH more. But for us, our visit was everything we had hoped for and we would definitely go again.

Thanks for reading my post Time to Plan New England in the Fall. Happy Fall Y’all! Nothing like basking in the reds and golds of fall before winter descends.

Historic Boscobel House on the Hudson River in Beacon NY

This is our sixth and final post of cross USA road trip we did in September and October 2025. See the other posts; Yellowstone National Park USA, One Day in Chicago Illinois, Cleveland Ohio Two Museums Not to Miss, Visit the National Baseball Hall of Fame, and Fun Roadside Attractions Cross Country Interstate 90.

Lots of fall color in beautiful Ogunquit Maine

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See last week’s post Hidden Gems of the PNW – Ballard Washington.

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Hidden Gems of the PNW – Ballard Washington

July 24, 2026

Laureen

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Location: Ballard Washington

Only a few decades ago, sleepy Ballard was the butt of all Scandinavian jokes. A Seattle neighborhood of working class families descended from working class immigrants, Ballard was solid, if a bit rough around the edges. Times have changed and and here is one more Hidden Gems of the PNW – Ballard Washington.

(This post was updated in July 2026)

Sleepy No More

I sure wish I had bought a house in Ballard back then. I’d be a millionaire today. Today, Ballard is hip. A cool place to be for young singles and families….without losing that solid working class vibe. Still home to much of the Seattle area fishing fleet, the history of fishing and shipbuilding runs deep in this community.

Shilshole Bay Ballard — View from Sunset Park

What a difference a few decades make. Ballard is blooming and is now not only home to the magnificent Nordic Heritage Museum (opened in 2018), it is also a culinary Mecca – home to dozens and dozens of highly rated restaurants, some difficult to get a reservation for. Ballard, sleepy no more. I love a lot of my home state, and Ballard is one of my favorite places among those.

One of the PNW Trolls at the Nordic Heritage Museum. Learn more about the Trolls here.

It’s Time to Rediscover Ballard, Washington

A day in Ballard is a pleasant idea….but even better why not a weekend or several days? There is so much to do here, without ever actually going into downtown Seattle. Beautiful Ballard. We want you to give it the time it deserves, so we share with you a wide variety of our favorite Ballard finds…everything from parks to beaches, coffee to fish, and hiking to vintage. Hidden Gems of the PNW – Ballard Washington.

Our Recommendations to Get You Started

It’s a long, long list but we hope these recommendations will give you a variety of reasons to visit Ballard and it’s surrounding neighborhoods.

Where to Stay

If you can make your visit more than a day, we recommend the beautiful boutique hotel in the heart of Ballard, The Hotel Ballard. It’s exceptional and will make your visit to Ballard exceptional. We have also stayed in a few Airbnb’s in Ballard, and our favorite of those is this darling Guest Suite in a quiet neighborhood.

Tiny but perfectly appointed with a nice outdoor space too. See the link for this
Ballard Airbnb Hideway

Let’s Eat!

It’s impossible to list all the delicious and innovative dining options in Ballard…so I am offering up a few of my old favs as well as some new to me options!

Stoneburner Restaurant Ballard — Stoneburner is my fav

Stoneburner – always popular and delicious,Stoneburner is a must when in Ballard. Reservations are definitely recommended.

Walrus and the Carpenter Ballard — Oysters at The Walrus and the Carpenter

The Walrus and the Carpenter a long time standout in Seattle, and one of the best places for oysters and seafood. Great space too. Reservations are recommended.

Little Woody's Ballard — Salmon Burger from Lil Woody’s

Lil Woody’s – It’s not hard to find a good burger in Seattle, and locals flock to Dicks. But right here in Lil Ballard I would always choose Lil Woody’s.

El Moose – authentic, funky and delicious, a perfect menu of Mexican traditional food right in the heart of Ballard.

Mean Sandwich – this sandwich shop is so Ballard. Popular, delicious and a bit whacky you gotta come in and try a sandwich when in Ballard.

Frankie and Jos on a summer day can’t be beat

Frankie and Jos – is a plant based ice cream shop that uses coconut milk instead of dairy. And it is oh so delicious with unique and fun flavors.

Arashi Ramen – teeny little hole in the wall but worth the wait if it’s crowded for one of their delicious bowls of Ramen.

And More Food Options…

Biscuit and Bean – we recently discovered this delicious coffee and biscuit spot and it is a perfect lazy breakfast location or a quick coffee too.

Sabine Mediteranian We recently enjoyed a wonderful meal at Sabine for the first time. Lots of small plate options as well as flatbreads and entre plates. We will be back for sure.

Cafe Umbria – we just recently were introduced to Cafe Umbria by our son, this is his go-to coffee spot in Ballard. It’s easy to see why. Great coffee, service and ambiance.

Un Bien – messy and delicious you must try a sandwich from Un Bien. Two locations in Ballard.

Walk up order and outdoor seating at Un Bien

Get Outside

For such a compact neighborhood of Seattle, Ballard is blessed with an abundance of parks, and a visit to beautiful Ballard wouldn’t be complete without a visit to at least one of Ballard’s parks. This is a list of our favorites.

Discovery Park – definitely one of Seattle’s greatest treasures, a visit to Discovery Park is an absolute must.

Leif Erickson Statue Ballard — Leif Erickson and my own little Vikings at Shilshole Marina

Shilshole Marina – Nothing like the walk along the path near Shilshole on a summer day.

Golden Gardens – Dare I say this is Seattle’s favorite park? A very special spot no matter what time of year. Make a visit to Golden Gardens.

Going through the locks on my son’s sailboat

The Ballard Locks – this is one of the most fascinating places in Seattle, and always worth a visit. Going through the locks on a boat is cool, but it’s just as cool to enjoy it from the shore, and learn from the interpretive signage. Don’t miss it.

Lunch at Point Shilshole with a sandwich from Un Bien

Point Shilshole – often called Seattle’s prettiest beach, Point Shilshole is a bit of a hidden gems for getting in the water, watching birds, and enjoying the view.

So Many Things To Do

And so many more things to discover in Ballard;

Ballard Farmers Market — The Ballard Farmer’s Market on Sundays

National Nordic Heritage Museum opened in 2018 this remarkable museum is a must when visiting Ballard. Nordic roots run deep throughout the greater Pacific Northwest and this museum tells the story. It also is a remarkable work of architecture. Make this a priority.

Learn the Nordic history of the PNW at the National Nordic Heritage Museum

The Ballard Farmers Market a year ’round farmers market is nearly unheard of in the Pacific Northwest, but for the past 26 years the Ballard Farmers Market has been open every Sunday. It is a wonderful place for fresh produce, crafts and lunch as well as fun people watching. Don’t miss it.

The streets close every Sunday for the Ballard Farmers Market

Fresh and local at the Sunday Ballard Farmers Market

Bakke Coffee Museum a must-visit destination for coffee enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The museum showcases the evolution of coffee culture through an impressive collection of espresso machines, grinders, and brewing artifacts. Walk-ins welcome Sundays from 12-4 or other days by appointment. See website for more.

Ballard Reuse is a treasure trove of constantly changing inventory of vintage and eclectic items for any use. Take a stroll and be insprired.

You never know what you will find at Ballard Reuse

Further Afield

As long as you are here definitely spend as much time as possible at any or all of these wonderful attractions only a few minutes from Ballard. Enjoy the Woodland Park Zoo, Funky Freemont and Green Lake just to name a few.

Woodland Park Zoo Lowland Gorilla — Woodland Park Zoo

Are You Convinced?

Have I convinced you that it’s time to rediscover Ballard Washington? I have spent a lot of time there over the last seven years, because my adult son calls it home. If he had never moved there, I would never have rediscovered Ballard myself…and I’m so glad I did. I still have a lot to see in Beautiful Ballard…so I’ll see you there.

This article is also featured on GPSmyCity. To download this article for offline reading or create a self-guided walking tour to visit the attractions highlighted in this article, go to Walking Tours and Articles in Seattle

Thank you for reading my post Hidden Gems of the PNW – Ballard Washington. Learn more about Ballard at Visit Ballard. See last week’s post Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Narrows Park Gig Harbor.

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Reading Wednesday

Ninth Annual (and Final) Reading Round Up 2026

July 22, 2026

Laureen

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As you likely know if you have been following all these years, I track my reading year from July to July – why not be different from everyone else who tracks January to January? Nothing fancy, just keep a little tally in my notebook of all the books I read. This year I read 95 books, (eight more than last year) and the most I have ever read in one year. Due to my convalescing from total knee replacement, my book total is much higher than usual. Today I will share with you my favorites for the Ninth Annual (and Final) Reading Round Up 2026.

In case you didn’t know, I am retiring the My Fab Fifties Blog at the end of 2026. I will retire the Reading Wednesday blog post today...with this being the final book review post. Over the past nine years I have written just short of 500 book reviews and read just under 900 books. I will continue to talk about books on my Instagram page. So if you have enjoyed these weekly book reviews for NINE YEARS please join us on Instagram. Here is the link.

Over the past year I have written 53 book reviews, pulling into reviews my favorites of the 95 books. Most of my reading is done on my Kindle while traveling, and hardback and paperback when I am home in the summer. There is always an Audible going when I am in the car too. I like Audible for car trips, a great way to be entertained on the road. I also found Audible very soothing right after my surgery when my focus wasn’t up to par.

So as in the past several years, I’m sharing my most favorites from July ’25 to July ’26. Some outstanding novels, biographies, historical non-fiction, and memoirs. In past years I have shared a number one of the year. But this year, I just cant do it. I read so many impressive books this year, I just can’t chose. So for this final Reading Roundup I share my TOP FIVE (in order) and FIFTEEN more I highly recommend. So here we go, my Ninth Annual (And Final) Reading Round Up 2026;

TOP FIVE

The River is Waiting

This book. Wow. I listened to this book and it truly blew me away. This is my first read by Wally Lamb, and he is brilliant. I haven’t read a book in a REALLY long time that gave me such a visceral reaction. Let me be honest with you. If you can get through the first chapter of this book, you will be rewarded with a rich, deep and heartbreaking personal story. Lamb has created a hero for our time in Corbin Ledbetter. I can’t stop thinking about this book, or this character. A sure sign of an exceptional read.

The Calamity Club

Both funny and sad The Calamity Club takes a deep dive into Mississippi and the south in the 1930’s. The novel touches on homosexuality, promiscuity, orphanages, infidelity, race and the southern hierarchy of wealth and poverty. But mostly this book is about a women’s drive to survive. Women’s health, still today, is poorly studied or properly diagnosed and in 1933 Mississippi it was downright appalling.

John of John

The narrative in this book, so beautifully written, is above all else, about truth. A deep thread running through the novel is how difficult it can be, particularly in a small cutoff place, to become who you were meant to be. On this barren island old ways die hard. Religion is rigid. One of the last places where Gaelic is spoken and subsistence farming continues. How to be true to yourself when life is expected to only be a one certain way?

Mad Mabel

What happens when Australia’s youngest convicted murderer grows up to be a cantankerous old woman in a quiet Melbourne neighborhood? Hepworth’s wonderful novel is full of engaging characters and laugh out loud predicaments.

Theo of Golden

I was in a reading slump at the end of 2025, uninspired by nearly everything I tried to read. And then there was Theo. The feel good book of the year. The word heartfelt, though a bit cliché, is the best word to describe this beautiful story. I seriously found myself smiling through it…except for when I was sobbing. I have not read anything by Levi before, and this character driven novel is such a beautiful story.

AND FIFTEEN MORE IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER

So Far Gone by Jess Walters in a word REDEMPTION

Broken Country by Claire Leslie Hall in a word SECRETS

Wild Dark Shores by Charlotte McConaghy in a word GRIPPING

My Friends Frederik Backman in a word HEARTBREAKING

The Correspondent by Virginia Evans in a word GRIEF

The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Hartnet in a word HILARIOUS

Buckeye by Patrick Ryan in a word GRIEF

Heartwood by Amity Gaige in a word SURVIVAL

The Names by Florence Knapp in a word CHOICES

The Lincoln Moon by Michael Price Nelson in a word INFAMOUS

Life & Death & Giants by Ron Rindo in a word MIRACLES

Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke in a word DISTURBING

The Tortoise’s Tale by Kendra Coulter in a word OBSERVATIONS

The Elements by John Boyne in a word ABUSED

A Family Matter by Claire Lynch in a word SHAMEFUL

Reading Roundup

And with that, we wrap nine years and nearly 500 book reviews. It’s been a passion and a pleasure to write these book reviews (and travel posts). We will continue to write travel posts through January ’27, but here today the book reviews end.

Please follow us on Instagram, where we will have book recommendations in a shorter, video format regularly. Thank you for your continued support all these years. It has been my greatest joy to provide this service, talk about books, and build a love of reading amongst my followers. The world would be kinder, smarter, more tolerant, understanding and interesting, if everyone would turn off their television and read.

Yours,

Laureen

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At Home -- North America Travel

Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Narrows Park Gig Harbor

July 17, 2026

Laureen

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I love this park. It truly is a hidden gem. I used to come here to eat my lunch alone when I was working. It was a quiet place I could breath away from the chaos. And I still come here. So if you need a quiet place to breath, let me tell you about this Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Narrows Park Gig Harbor.

Bagel Sandwich on a beautiful day at Narrows Park

History

For years I referred to this park as Doc Weathers Park, although that was never the official name. But for some reason that was how I was introduced to it. The history of this park is really fascinating. Here is how it is described from the PenMet Parks website;

Narrows Park’s 36 acres include mature forest, and 1,315 feet of saltwater beach, and is the result of the combination of several parcels owned by several different families over the years.

In 1889, Section 33, including Narrows Park, was owned by W.S. Ladd. In 1915, the north portion of Narrows Park was owned by J.A. Hosher. In 1924, N.M. Lawson owned the southern portion after it served as part of a U.S. Military Reservation. In 1951, Doc Weathers owned a 36-acre parcel in the south portion, and built the main residence in 1961. He also owned several hundred surrounding acres including the site of the Tacoma Narrows Airport.

Doc Weathers’ wife, Lucille, inherited the 36-acre parcel in 1985 from his estate. Fred and Grace Gemmel inherited the property in 1992 from Lucille’s estate. In 1994, the Gemmels gifted the property to the Lutheran Church Foundation in St Louis, Missouri. The Trust for Public Land acquired the property from the Lutheran Church Foundation in 1996 in anticipation of selling it to Pierce County.

Pierce County acquired the property in 1996 for $2.5 million through the use of Pierce County Conservation Futures funds and a Washington State IAC (later RCO) federal Land and Water Conservation Fund grant. The road, parking, and viewing areas were developed in 2005 as a component of the third Tacoma Narrows Bridge construction.

Beautiful forest greets you as you decend to the park

In 2011, Pierce County transferred the property to the Peninsula Metropolitan Park District which now owns, operates, and maintains the park. Eagle Scout projects have added picnic tables and other amenities.

Still a Hidden Gem

Although each time I visit there are more people, it really is still a hidden gem. The park is a great place to have a picnic. I used to bring my Dad here for lunch when he was suffering from Alzheimer disease. It is easy access and he liked to look at the beautiful view of the Narrows Bridge.

It’s a great place to walk and beach comb at low tide. Photographers love it for the spectacular full view of the bridges as well as lots of bird life and marine traffic.

If you can brave the chilly water, it’s a great place to wade on a sunny day

Tacoma Narrows Bridges

When the third Tacoma Narrows Bridge was under construction I enjoyed my quiet getaways to this park to watch the bridge literally rise out of the water. This week marks 19 years since the opening of bridge number three. Although often referred to as the “new” bridge or the second bridge, the bridge is the third to span the narrows. Learn more Tacoma Narrows Bridge history here.

Bridge two (1950) and three (2007) side by side

Galloping Gertie” was the nickname given to the original Tacoma Narrows Bridge. Opening on July 1, 1940, it was the third-longest suspension bridge in the world at the time. Famous for swaying and twisting violently in the wind, the bridge collapsed on November 7, 1940.

The second Tacoma Narrows Bridge, which replaced the collapsed “Galloping Gertie”, officially opened to traffic on October 14, 1950

Following increased traffic congestion, a third, parallel suspension bridge was later built alongside it and opened on July 16, 2007. And Narrows Park is the best place to view it.

That’s me at the Grand Opening Celebration of the third Tacoma Narrows Bridge
July 16, 2007

Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Narrows Park Gig Harbor

So I’ve let you in on my little secret. A small, quiet park with big beautiful views – Narrows Park in Gig Harbor. Another true Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Narrows Park Gig Harbor. Find the park here.

Thank you for reading my post Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Narrows Park Gig Harbor. See last week’s post Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Quincy Square Bremerton.

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Reading Wednesday

Book Review The Calamity Club by Kathryn Stockett

July 15, 2026

Laureen

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Note – this is the final Reading Wednesday book review in this format. Next week we will have our 2025-2026 Reading Roundup. After that, all Reading Wednesday book reviews will move to our Instagram account. Please follow us on Instagram.

Kathryn Stockett

It’s been sixteen years since Stockett’s wildly successful novel The Help came out. Readers have been waiting for her next work. Let me tell you, The Calamity Club was worth the wait. One of my favorite books of the year, and absolutely mesmerizing on Audible. Here is my book review The Calamity Club by Kahtryn Stockett.

Mississippi 1933

The depression is raging, money is tight and unemployment is high. But there is a class of women whose husbands or sons are handling the finances. These wealthy women have no idea how bad it is and it’s about to get worse.

Birdie and Frances

Birdie travels to Oxford Mississippi to find her sister Frances in hopes of getting a loan from her wealthy brother-in-law’s family. Birdie’s family will lose their house if the back taxes amounting to $250 are not paid.

Birdie finds her spoiled little sister living in wealth, but something seems off. It doesn’t take long for the pieces to fall into place. Frances husband Rory Tart has been hiding their real financial situation.

Meg

In a parallel timeline of the story we meet Meg, a feisty and smart eleven year old orphan, living in poor conditions at the Oxford Orphanage. Frances volunteers, so Birdie does too while she is in town. Birdie is horrified by the conditions Meg is forced to endure. There is something bitter with the Orphanage Chairwoman Garnett. She is mean and nasty and harboring a deep secret of her own.

Cat Call

Charlie arrives on the doorstep of Idyewild, the historic home of the Tart family. Charlie is in search of Meg. Disheveled and desperate, she asks Birdie to help her find her daughter.

When Rory disapears, Birdie convinces Frances and Mrs. Tart to go in search of him, while she and Charlie cook up a scheme to raise money and save all of them from ruin. An unlikely sisterhood is formed, defying all the strict social norms of the era, in a risky business scenario to save families, homes and human beings.

Book Review The Calamity Club by Kathryn Stockett

One of the best books this year, I adored all the characters (and there are a lot of characters) in this novel. Both funny and sad The Calamity Club takes a deep dive into Mississippi and the south in the 1930’s. The novel touches on homosexuality, promiscuity, orphanages, infidelity, race and the southern hierarchy of wealth and poverty. But mostly this book is about a women’s drive to survive. Women’s health, still today, is poorly studied or properly diagnosed and in 1933 Mississippi it was downright appalling.

*****Five stars for The Calamity Club by Kathryn Stockett. One of my favorite books of the year.

See last week’s book review Strangers: A Memoire of Marriage by Belle Burden

COME BACK NEXT WEDNESDAY for our Ninth Annual (and final) Reading Roundup 2026. Our favorite reads of the past year.

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At Home -- North America Travel

Hidden Gems of the PNW – Quincy Square Bremerton

July 10, 2026

Laureen

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Quincy Square is a newly opened gathering space in the heart of downtown Bremerton, where I spent my childhood. Bremerton, like many downtown areas has struggled recently to stay viable. But Quincy Square is making a difference. Here is my post Hidden Gems of the PNW – Quincy Square Bremerton.

Honoring the Legend Quincy Jones

Beautiful Mural honoring Quincy Jones and his music

Quincy Square was created to celebrate community, culture, and the legacy of legendary music producer and composer Quincy Jones. Located along 4th Street in the heart of Bremerton, the pedestrian-friendly plaza was designed as a cultural hub. Residents and visitors can gather for concerts, festivals, art displays, and community events. Jones spent part of his youth in Bremerton and often credits the city as the place where he discovered his passion for music. (Quincy Square)

Many interactive things to do for young and old alike

Challenges of Revitalization

The development of Quincy Square transformed a section of downtown into an inviting public space featuring a permanent bandstand, public art installations, interpretive displays, seating areas, and music-inspired design elements. Envisioned as a key component of Bremerton’s Creative District, providing a central location for cultural programming and helping to strengthen connections between local businesses, artists, and community organizations. Public artworks, including a bronze sculpture and murals honoring Quincy Jones and others, contribute to the square’s unique identity.

Historic Roxy Theater anchors Quincy Square

Events

Recently Bremerton did an outstanding job using the space to gather the community for the FIFA World Cup games. Quincy Square was home to the Kitsap Fan Zone, with an opening ceremony concert from Mike Herrara of MXPX, another locally raised musician. My family and I really enjoyed this event, the concert and the soccer on the giant screen. It was free, family friendly and fun to see how the community embraced it.

Mike Herrara performs at the World Cup Fan Zone opening event

The permanent stage features numerous events through the year

Enjoying a microbrew at Dog Days Brewing in Quincy Square

Community

By combining public art, music, and community engagement, Quincy Square has become a symbol of downtown Bremerton’s revitalization and a welcoming destination that celebrates the city’s diverse cultural heritage. The square honors numerous Black leaders from Bremerton, trailblazers for equality in the region. Quincy Square is about community both past and future and shines as an example of what can happen when people come together.

Honoring some of Bremerton’s legends and Black leaders

Learn more about events in downtown Bremerton here. Bremerton is located on the Kitsap Peninsula, a one hour ride on the Washington State Ferry from Seattle, or a 30 min ride on the Kitsap Transit Fast Ferry from Seattle. Thirty minutes from Tacoma via Hwy 16.

Hidden Gems of the PNW – Quincy Square Bremerton

Thank you for reading my post Hidden Gems of the PNW – Quincy Square Bremerton. I hope you will visit soon. See last week’s post Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest Bainbridge Island.

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Reading Wednesday

Book Review Strangers: A Memoir of Marriage by Belle Burden

July 8, 2026

Laureen

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Every woman should read this book – a cautionary tale about financial independence and marriage. Here is my book review Strangers: A Memoir of Marriage by Belle Burden.

NOTE – At the end of July these book review posts will move from this blog to Instagram. Reading Wednesday will continue on most Wednesdays but on Instagram. Please follow our Instagram page here.

Betrayal

After twenty years of marriage, Belle’s husband suddenly admitted to an affair and announced he was leaving her. Belle was blindsided, having seen no red flags. She is left to manage during the pandemic their house and three children.

Strangers

Despite her initial despair and hopes that her husband would change his mind, Burden spends the next several years bouncing from depression to self reliance. She realizes this man she has spent twenty years with was a stranger to her, and his casual refusal to update their prenup should have been a red flag to her. Despite her wealthy upbringing, she has allowed all of her assets to be shared, even while allowing her husbands income to not. A long drawn out divorce takes a tremendous toll on her personal health, her family and even her friendships.

Her husband cuts off his relationship, claims he does not want shared custody and turns her life into a living hell during the divorce negotiations.

Cautionary Tale

I found the book to be well written and intriguing. Her story is believable, and a cautionary tale to women who cede all control of the family finances in marriage. Burden found herself not aware of the truth of the financial situation or prepared for the her precarious situation.

Some people have criticized this author because of her families wealth, but I found her truth and honesty of the demise of her marriage both fascinating, educational and heartbreaking.

****Four stars for Strangers: A Memoir of Marriage by Belle Burden

Thank you for reading my book review Strangers: A Memoir of Marriage by Belle Burden. See last week’s book review John of John by Douglas Stuart.

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Island Life -- North America Travel

Hidden Gems of the PNW – Bainbridge Island

See It Again or For the First Time

July 3, 2026

Laureen

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Location: Bainbridge Island Washington USA

A thirty-minute ferry ride from Seattle, or a thirty-minute drive from Bremerton, Beautiful Bainbridge Island Washington is a bit of a secret. Let me tell you about Hidden Gems of the PNW – Bainbridge Island.

Note – this article was updated in July 2026

Home to 25,000 full-time residents, the island is one of several that call the Puget Sound home, and is one of the most populated. Only ten miles long and five miles wide, Bainbridge is connected to the Kitsap Peninsula by a bridge over Agate Pass and to Seattle and King County by Washington State Ferry.

History of Beautiful Bainbridge Island Washington

For thousands of years the island was home to the Suquamish people who lived in nine separate villages around the island. The Vancouver expedition visited the island in 1792 and the Wilkes expedition in 1841. It was Wilkes who named the island after Commodore William Bainbridge.

In 1855 the Suquamish relinquished their claim to the island to the US government in exchange for reservation and fishing rights at Port Madison.

Japanese immigrants made their way to the island starting in 1888 and began much of the agriculture of the island, some of which remains today. But the Japanese were removed to internment camps during WWII…many never returned. A very beautiful Japanese American Exclusion Memorial is located just outside of the town of Winslow.

In 1991 the entire island was named the City of Bainbridge Island.

A Perfect Day Trip

Spending more than one day on beautiful Bainbridge Island Washington would be amazing, but if you only can get here for a day trip there is plenty you can do. We offer up some suggestions below. If you are walking from the ferry the village of Winslow has much to offer. And if you have a car there is even more to see and do further afield. Here are our suggestions:

Close to the Ferry

Marina and Ferry Terminal with Seattle Skyline in the distance

If you are driving, parking is usually available either on the main street called Winslow Way or on one of the side streets. But if you are walking from the ferry it’s a short five minute walk to the area known as Winslow.

SHOPPING

The Winslow area offers a wonderful variety of shops and restaurants including clothing and outdoor wear, jewelry and decorative finds, wine and tea and more. Two of my favorite shops are the incomparable Eagle Harbor Books and Town & Country Market. On my most recent trip I discovered Bainbridge Apothecary and Tea Shop and Danger a fabulous little gift shop.. I loved it!

DINING

You will never go hungry on Bainbridge Island. So many wonderful places to eat breakfast, lunch, or dinner. We recently tried two new restaurants on Bainbridge, Sweetwater Tavern (in the former location of Marche) and Proper Fish for their outstanding fish and chips. We also love Cafe Hitchcock. Streamliner Diner is great for breakfast, Blackbird Bakery has the best lemon blueberry scones and San Carlos is one of the best Mexican/Southwest Restaurants in the state of Washington.

WATERFRONT TRAIL

It’s not a long walk but the Bainbridge Waterfront Trail is a beautiful walk along both a paved path and a raised boardwalk. Definitely worth a few minutes of your time to enjoy the wind and salt in your hair, the thousands of masts and to hear the horn of the ferry in the distance.

MUSEUMS

The Bainbridge Historical Museum is worth a visit to learn the fascinating history of the island and it’s people. Learn more about it here.

We were extremely surprised and impressed with the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art. What a revelation to find such an outstanding museum in this small town. And it was FREE!! We spent about an hour here, enjoying both the permanent and temporary exhibits as well as marveling at the beautiful architecture of the building. A must visit when on the island. Learn more here.

Further Afield

Beautiful Bainbridge Island Washington is home to many, many parks including the beautiful Fay Bainbridge waterfront park and camp ground. See a full list of parks here. With a vehicle we also recommend;

JAPANESE AMERICAN EXCLUSION MEMORIAL – mentioned above

GRAND FOREST PARK – an astonishing variety of trails offered in this park located in the forested interior of the island. A beautiful spot.

BLOEDEL RESERVE – not to be missed. This 150 acre reserve is located on the historic property of Virginia and Prentice Bloedel. Today the spectacular gardens are astonishing to say the least and open to the public by tickets available online. Adults $20. Worth every penny.

Bloedel Reserve

LYNNWOOD CENTER – is a small neighborhood village with a handful of shops and restaurant worth a drive to enjoy. We recommend The Treehouse Cafe.

BAINBRIDGE BREWING – always in search of microbrew, we found it on Bainbridge. Bainbridge Brewing has it’s brewing headquarters and a tasting room on the interior of island and also has a tasting room in Winslow.

PIA THE PEACEKEEPER – one of several Thomas Dambo trolls in the Pacific Northwest (see the full list here) Is a darling 18 foot tall troll easily accessible and definitely worth a visit.

FAYE BAINBRIDGE PARK – spectacular views with picnic, camping and walking trails this is a not to miss park on the island.

Hidden Gems of the PNW – Bainbridge Island

Worth a day or a weekend, beautiful Bainbridge Island Washington will sooth your senses – forest bathe in the green forests, inhale the salty air from the multiple waterfront locations, relax. Experience a friendly neighborhood island of socially active residents who make nature, art and sustainability a priority on their island. Take it down a notch on beautiful Bainbridge Island Washington. I’ll see you there.

See last week’s post Hidden Gems of the PNW – The Foothills Trail here.

This article is also featured on GPSmyCity. To download this article for offline reading or create a self-guided walking tour to visit the attractions highlighted in this article, go to Walking Tours and Articles in Bainbridge Island.

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